Reds vs Dodgers starting pitchers
- Walker Buehler for Los Angeles Dodgers
- Graham Ashcraft for Cincinnati Reds
Reds vs Dodgers game preview
As the Cincinnati Reds gear up to face the Los Angeles Dodgers, all eyes are on the mound where Graham Ashcraft and Walker Buehler are slated as the probable starters. Ashcraft, sporting a 4.12 ERA with a total of 35 strikeouts and 3 wins this season, aims to fortify his standing and deliver for the Reds. On the flip side, Buehler, with a 7.36 ERA in his limited innings this season, looks to bounce back and find his rhythm after a rocky start. The contrasting stats of these two pitchers set the stage for a compelling matchup, stirring up questions: Will Ashcraft leverage his current form, or will Buehler turn the tide in his favor?
Diving into the Reds’ camp, their performance at the plate shows both sparks of brilliance and areas for improvement. Leading the league with 79 stolen bases indicates a daring and aggressive base-running strategy that could fluster the Dodgers’ defense. However, their overall batting leaves much to be desired, sitting at the bottom with a team average of .220. Key players like Elly De La Cruz, who leads with a .270 average and 9 homers, and Spencer Steer, driving in 30 runs, need to ignite their bats and capitalize on scoring opportunities if the Reds hope to tilt the game in their favor.
On the other side, the Dodgers are a powerhouse this season, dominating in multiple metrics including runs scored, hits, and walks, positioning them at the summit of major league rankings. The staggering .260 team batting average coupled with leaders like Shohei Ohtani, who boasts a .358 average and 13 homers, and Teoscar Hernandez, with 36 RBIs, showcases a robust lineup that can intimidate any pitching staff. Facing this formidable offense, the Reds’ pitchers need to craft a meticulous game plan, focusing on limiting walks and controlling the Dodgers’ aggressive hitters to keep the scoreboard manageable.
Los Angeles Dodgers injuries
- Connor Brogdon (RP): 15-Day-IL
- Zyhir Hope (OF): Day-To-Day
- Evan Phillips (RP): 15-Day-IL
- Joe Kelly (RP): 15-Day-IL
- Bobby Miller (SP): 15-Day-IL
Cincinnati Reds injuries
- TJ Friedl (CF): 10-Day-IL
- Nick Lodolo (SP): 15-Day-IL
- Brandon Williamson (SP): 60-Day-IL
- Alex Young (RP): 60-Day-IL
- Justin Wilson (RP): 15-Day-IL
Reds vs Dodgers predictions
I'm expecting big things from Elly De La Cruz, the Reds' shortstop, who's been on a tear lately. He's got the potential to go yard twice and drive in at least three runs. Meanwhile, Spencer Steer, the Reds' left fielder, is due for a breakout game - I think he'll rack up at least two hits and a crucial RBI. And let's not sleep on Tyler Stephenson, the Reds' catcher, who's been quietly putting together a solid season; I think he'll notch two hits and score a run.
On the other side of the diamond, the Dodgers are loaded with talent, but I think Mookie Betts is the key to their success. He's going to get on base at least three times and score twice. Freddie Freeman is another guy who's due for a big game - I think he'll go yard and drive in two runs. And Shohei Ohtani? He's just a freak athlete who can do it all - I think he'll notch two hits and drive in a run.
So, who's gonna take this one? I think the Dodgers are just too talented and too deep - I'm picking them to win 6-4. The Reds will make it interesting, but in the end, the Dodgers' offense will prove to be too much. Walker Buehler will get the win, and the Dodgers will take the series lead.
